Our Cancer Genetic Testing and Counseling Services
If you or a family member has received a cancer diagnosis in the past, you may have a genetic risk of developing cancer in the future. Knowing your risk can help you make better, more-informed decisions about your healthcare and potentially lower your chances of developing certain types of cancer.
Call for an Appointment
Contact us if your provider has referred you for genetic counseling and testing.
CALL 413-794-8890
How Our Cancer Genetic Testing and Counseling Process Works
You’ll need a referral from your primary care provider or another provider to receive genetic testing and counseling. If your provider refers you to us for genetic counseling, we’ll work with you by phone or through secure email to gather the information we need before your counseling appointment. That information includes:
- Cancer histories for three generations of your mother’s and father’s sides of your family (i.e., up to your grandparents’ generation)
- Information about any family members who have had genetic testing for cancer risk
- Copies of those genetic test results
Once we review this information we can determine if you or a family member may benefit from a consultation with a genetic counselor. In some cases, we may recommend testing one of your family members first. Due to this unique process, we are often able to offer shorter wait times for appointments than some other genetics practices.
During your genetic counseling appointment, we will offer a personalized risk assessment of your personal and family history to determine if you could benefit from genetic testing. If genetic testing makes sense for you, we will review pros, cons, and limitations regarding genetic testing.
If you decide to proceed with genetic testing, we can usually perform this testing with a blood or saliva sample the same day as your genetic counseling visit. This test lets us look for mutations (like spelling mistakes in the genes) that can lead to an increased risk for certain types of cancer or cancer-related conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (the two most common genetic disorders that can lead to an increased risk for developing several types of cancer).
Next Steps After Cancer Genetic Testing and Counseling
If your genetic test reveals a mutation, you’ll speak again with your genetic counselors to discuss your results and what they mean for you and your family. Most of the time this follow-up can be done over the phone. If appropriate, you may also meet with one of our medical oncologists to discuss ways to lower your risk for cancer, as well as the need for regular screening. For example, if your tests shows you have an increased risk for developing breast cancer, you may be a candidate for our High Risk Screening Program at the Baystate Breast & Wellness Center.
If your tests don’t reveal a mutation, or if you choose to not undergo genetic testing, you may still be at increased risk for developing cancer because of your family history or other factors. The providers in our High Risk Clinic have experience in working with individuals who may be at higher risk to develop breast cancer. They can work with you to develop a plan for additional cancer screenings and follow-up care from our team of cancer specialists. Your recommendations for follow-up appointments will likely depend on what type of cancer you may be at higher risk of developing.
Call for an Appointment
Contact us if your provider has referred you for genetic counseling and testing.
CALL 413-794-8890
Frequently Asked Questions About Cancer Genetic Testing and Counseling
It’s natural to have questions if your doctor has recommended genetic testing for your cancer risk. Our genetic counselors are here to help. We’ve compiled a list of questions we often hear from patients, as well as the answers you need to make informed decisions about getting tested.